Well we will all be feeling the same about Stokes ugly football, in the end it worked. (With the help of two terrible decisions) WE know there strengths and gave away some poor freekick's. What I can't understand is trying to throw the ball in the air from OUR throw ins which they were winning easily, why not throw it to someones feet? Same with corners and crosses lifting the ball into their box is pointless, that short corner we took we nearly scored from. Henderson did well first half but once again he was running out of gas early second half. Should have been subbed earlier. Richardson's 4th goal, yet I still feel his all round play is lacking. Sess and Gyan were playing well off each other, support needs to get to them quicker. Have to say Muntari's debut was very good, laying off the ball well and making himself available. Some of his passing was phenomenal both short and accurate long balls not just lumped up field. Couple of mistakes and took one for the team when we were stretched, can only get better when he gets used to his team mates.
One of the positives for me was Muntari running back to our box to pick up the ball to feet, then carrying the ball forwards confidently without panicking.
the one touch passing between the midfield to keep hold of the ball was class at times. muntari looked composed with the ball at his feet, the killer ball was lacking but its only his first game. if we pass the ball like that every week then a top 7 finish is on the cards.
Good points there Rule, totally agree. I'm so annoyed that we threw that game away. I've never criticised Bruce, but for crying out loud, when will he do something about set pieces? We can't defend them and we squander our own opportunities. He needs to take a serious look at the situation. Fair play to Stoke, they did what they're good at, but everyone knows they play this game, so why can't we deal with it? And for anyone who questioned selling Jones, well......
Anyone notice Jones backing into our player who was in the air to head the ball, with the ref right beside them and gave a freekick to Stoke as our player came down on Jones?
We did well on the counter when Gordon threw the ball to one of our players, but when he kicked, we lost it every time.
my personal opinion, i dont like our tactics, i dont like the lone striker, gyan is not a bent, he will not get 25 goals a season, sess did well but wasnt a goal threat, 3 cental defenders over crowded each other.,roll on danny or frazier returning, a good midfield and 2 good forwards
I'm glad Gyan is not Bent he's a better footballer than Bent. If Gyan had the same easy chances and penalties Bent had 25+ would be a doddle.
